The following practices will help keep your flowers healthy while conserving water.

Proper soil preparation prior to planting will help conserve water.

Prepare soil before planting by loosening soil to 12 inches. If it is a heavy clay or
sandy soil, add 2-3 inches of compost on the soil surface and then till in to a 12-inch
depth.

Proper Mulch

Apply 1-2 inches of organic mulch between flowers to reduce evaporation and control
water-using weeds.

Fertilization

Fertilizing perennials is generally not needed if proper soil preparation is done prior
to planting. Fertilizer causes lush growth that requires more water. If fertilization is
needed, a slow release fertilizer can be applied in the spring.

Moderate fertilization for bedding plants is recommended either as liquid or granular or
a combination of both.

Irrigation

Annual and perennial flowers under water stress will have drooping leaves and a lack of
blooms. Foliage often appears gray-green in color. Water when signs of stress become
obvious. Apply irrigation in the evening or early morning to minimize evaporation.

Overhead spray irrigation is the least water wise method as much water is lost to
evaporation and wind drift. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation are more efficient because
they deliver water to the ground level near roots. Hand watering is another alternative
that maximizes delivery of water to the soil and roots.

Plant Selection

Some perennials are more efficient at utilizing water than others. Choose your plants to
match the site conditions.

Gray-leaved annuals and perennials are often more drought tolerant. Spring bulbs are
drought avoiders as they complete their life cycle prior to the onset of hot weather.

Click on highlighted names for photos and/or information on each plant:

Resume watering and check for signs of new growth that should appear in several weeks.

Water perennials well in the fall and monthly during dry winters with no snow cover to
ensure survival during the dormant season. Mulching the crowns of dormant perennials will
prevent frost heaving and conserve moisture in the plant through the winter.